Today, after we’d knocked over a couple hours yard work, maths, english and some other stuff I decided to teach him to Zentangle. He really likes to draw, which is a new thing, and I figured he might gain some relaxation, drawing practice and artistic skill from it…

This is his first effort… and he declared it enjoyable and relaxing! Win for the teacher!!!

Just before I go… a bit of a reflection on work… since we’ve been working towards a tour of NZ as a school excursion (I love HS!!!)… he’s been doing yard work for people… and other assorted jobs for money… may seem unrelated to schoolwork but honestly I feel passionately that this is a crucial part of building resilience, developing manhood, learning about pride in work, developing strength in body and character.

Already is appearing a boy who doesn’t complain about working because he has a goal to achieve and he works hard. This is physical outdoor work which means he gets healthy airflow as well as exercise, he learns to take instructions and complete a task. All of these are vital life skills not learned sitting in a classroom. Maybe not every kid needs this but for a kid who has been beaten down for a long time I believe this will have good long-term results.

Oh, PS: today we made a trip into school to see his friends from school. He expressed both anxiety and excitement about it since this is the first time since he left. We’ve arranged a play date with one. Frustratingly some of these boys have been good friends… until they get into a group dynamic and then things go awol… When he came home he said he misses seeing other boys as much, which I think is a healthy thing… now we’ve got to work out how to add the social contact a bit more…

Whether we go back to school one day sooner or later it is important for him to get a grip on his emotions, to know himself, and to have confidence in himself. It’s early days, but so far so good…

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About purplecamels

I'm a slightly crazy mother of 3, wife of 1, who loves adding colour to everything, being creative, and spending time with people. I am very grateful God is in control, though sometimes I wish He'd give a little more notice when He's got plans for my life!